A Day in Casco Viejo, Panama: A Stroll Through History and Art
Casco Viejo, the historic district of Panama City, is a place where the past meets the present in the most beautiful way. Wandering its cobblestone streets, we were surrounded by stunning colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and the deep history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our day was filled with awe-inspiring churches, charming hotels, delicious treats, and incredible local art.
Exploring the Magnificent Churches
Our first stop was to visit some of the district’s most breathtaking churches, each offering a glimpse into Panama’s deep-rooted history and devotion. The intricate architecture ranged from grand baroque facades to simple yet elegant colonial-era designs. Inside, the altars were adorned with gold, their brilliance reflecting the soft glow of candlelight. Perhaps most striking were the hand-carved nativity scenes, detailed with an artistry that seemed to bring each figure to life. Every church we stepped into felt like a sanctuary of both faith and artistry, with soaring ceilings and meticulously preserved details that whispered stories of centuries past.
The Charm of Historic Hotels
Casco Viejo is home to some of the most charming hotels, where old-world elegance meets modern luxury. Among them, La Concordia Boutique Hotel, Hotel La Compañía, and the American Trade Hotel stood out as architectural gems. The American Trade Hotel, in particular, embodies timeless sophistication with its high ceilings, vintage tiled floors, and lush courtyards. It was here that we stopped for a relaxing coffee break at Tiempos Specialty Coffee, nestled inside the hotel. The ambiance was warm and inviting, the perfect spot to sip on expertly brewed coffee while watching the world go by.
A Sweet Stop at Nomé Chocolate
No visit to Casco Viejo would be complete without indulging in some local flavors. At Nomé Chocolate, we sampled the most delightful handcrafted chocolates, each piece bursting with rich flavors and unique combinations. From dark chocolate infused with tropical fruits to silky smooth truffles, it was a treat for the senses. The shop itself exuded a cozy charm, making the experience all the more enjoyable.
A Glimpse into Panama’s Art Scene
One of the highlights of our day was stepping into a local gallery, where we discovered the vibrant works of Panamanian artist M. Saldaña. His paintings captured the essence of native Panamanians with bold colors and expressive strokes, each piece telling a story of culture and tradition. To our delight, we had the opportunity to meet the artist himself, and he even signed a print for us to take home. Little did we know, upon returning to our hotel, we would find a large M. Saldaña painting hanging right in the lobby—a serendipitous moment that made the experience even more special.
The Nightlife That Got Away
Casco Viejo is known for its lively nightlife, boasting an array of restaurants, rooftop bars, and speakeasies with breathtaking views of the city skyline. Unfortunately, a sudden and heavy rainstorm kept us from experiencing this firsthand. However, the allure of the district’s nightlife remains a compelling reason to return. The sounds of music spilling into the streets, the laughter of people enjoying the warm night air, and the scent of delicious cuisine being prepared in open kitchens all hinted at the energy and charm that awaited.
Final Thoughts
Even with the unexpected rain, our day in Casco Viejo was nothing short of magical. From the historic churches and elegant hotels to the delightful coffee and chocolates, and the inspiring art, every moment was a testament to the rich culture and beauty of Panama. We left with hearts full of memories and a longing to return—perhaps next time, to dance the night away under the stars.
Excellent piece and your writing style is just so inviting and descriptive, you make the reader feel as if they have really missed out on visiting this gem of a city! It will be on my “Places to Visit (&explore)” list for the foreseeable future! Thank you for sharing.